Moya Greene, a native of St. John's and current CEO of Canada Post, takes over as chief executive of Royal Mail in July. (Canada Post)

Canada Post chief executive officer Moya Greene was named Thursday as the next head of Royal Mail, becoming the first woman to run the money-losing British postal service.

Greene, a St. John's native, takes over as CEO of Royal Mail in July. She has been president and CEO of Canada Post since 2005.

"I am delighted that Moya is joining Royal Mail," Donald Bryden, the chairman of the U.K. postal service, said in a statement Thursday.

"She will bring energy, clear thinking and a proven leadership track record — as well as hugely relevant experience — to the business at an important moment in its evolution."

Greene's appointment comes as the British government plans to partially privatize Royal Mail, BBC News reported Thursday. The newly elected Conservative-Liberal Democratic coalition said last week it will seek private capital for Royal Mail while the network will remain public.

"I look forward to working closely with Moya as we tackle the challenges ahead and continue to focus on satisfying our customers and maintaining the six-days-a-week universal service," Bryden said.

In a statement released by Royal Mail, Greene said, "I am honoured to be joining such a great company and to be working with its customers and its people at such a momentous time in its history."

Greene's career has included stints at Bombardier and TD Bank.